Sony XBA Z5

I bought this a month ago, very happy with the sound quality of this product. Only issue is the not easy to wear this ear phone and need to find a suitable ear plug ( silcone) to get a seal and enjoy the music.

XBA Z5 after a few weeks

XBA-Z5 E 27 September 2017 (Malaysia)Verified Purchaser Verified

Using this without any specialized DAC or AMP, not using balanced connector, FLAC files in general and Spotify(normal quality). Is pretty good, the bass especially. Highs are crisp and mids are average, feels like the traditional V shape.
The price difference between this and the XBA A3 is not justifiable for the small amount of improvement. Definitely go for A3 unless money is of no concern.
The ear guides are quite bothersome as it needs to be adjusted everytime.
Would be nice if a pentacon adapter is bundled, that way it can also use with the PHA-2A

The most complete earphone ever produced

I am an avid fan of everything audiophile and always read reviews of new equipment released in the market from websites such as headfi.org, whathifi and others. I have also owned great hifi systems such as the Marantz CD63 KI Signature, Naim Nait 3 and KEF Q35. I know what makes great sound. And the XBA-Z5 comes to me as a wonderful surprise as it is one of those hifi equipment that's not had enough reviews anywhere. But after a listen, I was blown away. The balance is very analogue, warm, spacious and detailed. You can hear nuances in the music which makes eveything more immersive and satisfying like never before. And I have listened to JH Harveys and Fitears of this world and the Z5 is right up there with the best CIEMs. All that considered, the price is a bargain. I urge you to give it a listen. I assure you, you will be gobsmacked.

Awesome Sound

Having owned many IEMs including expensive multi driver IEMs i was pleasantly surprised at how my Sony XBA Z5 performed. Strong bass from the dynamic driver something that BA bass driver alone couldnt provide. Very detailed sounds all the instruments suddenly appeared that i didnt know was there. Nice big headroom, vocals was not very forward or projecting but more neutral and balanced the other instruments nicely. I enjoy this 'new' signature sound compared to my other more expensive multi driver IEMs. Only setback was the protruding earpiece which seems quite large and not a flush contour on the ear and earbuds was difficult to get a snug fit. May consider aftermarket memory foam tips.

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